DUDLEY Winter Ales Fayre 2020 has been officially cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Organisers at Dudley and South Staffordshire CAMRA confirmed the event, which was set to place this November, has been called off with a "heavy heart".

The need for social distancing meant the number of attendees for this year's festival at Dudley Town Hall were unviable.

It is only the second time the event has been cancelled in its history, the first time due to the foot and mouth outbreak.

Karl Denning from Dudley and South Staffordshire CAMRA said: "It is with a heavy heart that the committee and organiser of DWAF2020 have needed to cancel the Dudley Beer Festival. This is wholly due to the ongoing Covid-19 regulations and the need for social distancing.

"We have a duty of care to our customers, volunteers, DMBC staff and the wider public to help prevent the spread of the virus.

"The decision was not taken lightly and after consulting with both DMBC and CAMRA the decision was made to cancel this year’s event. It is only the second time that DWAF has been cancelled in its history, the other being because of foot and mouth.

"The committee and Dudley and South Staffs Branch of CAMRA asks that if possible and safe to help support your local pubs and breweries at this difficult time.

"The committee is committed to running a beer festival in Dudley and virus permitting we hope to see everyone for DWAF2021.

"Stay safe and happy drinking."

The festival traditionally takes place over the final weekend in November at Dudley Town Hall and sees visitors from around the country flock to the town to try local ales.